Introduction

This page was meant to be used as a wikitation for Dr. A.E. Perry's PD session, held on Monday May 28th, 2007. Its primary focus will be to introduce us to the world of podcasting in education. The wiki will remain open in order for staff members to contribute future content, ideas, resources, and links.

PD Agenda

  1. Why a wikitation?
  2. Podcasts defined with a few examples.
  3. Apple Garageband Tutorial (visit to Apple site and step by step basics with presenter).
  4. Hands-on exploration of Garageband.
  5. Make a short, collaborative podcast demonstrating our new skills. The topic of the podcast will be what you learned today and how you see yourself using podcasts in your classroom.

What is a podcast?

It may be easiest to think of a podcast as a radio show. The "show" is made up of a collection of episodes (usually audio and video files) which can be downloaded and listened to on personal media players (iPods/MP3 players) or everyday computers. The episodes can be downloaded one at a time or can be subscribed to in order for new episodes to be downloaded automatically.

Pod = a container
Cast = broadcast

Examples

Dr. A.E. Perry Grade Eight
Nice collection from our division (various grade levels)


Why should we use them with students?

Why shouldn't you use them with students? Imagine enabling students to broadcast their knowledge and imagination to the entire world! Consider the content that can be brought into your classroom by subscribing to various podcasts; they are source of knowledge and material which remain current.
To see how others might respond to the same question, check out the links below.

Apple-Podcasting in Education
Mabry Online

How do I get started?

  • Apple Garageband Tutorial Short video demonstration clips on how to use iLife's Garageband. A very good starting point for both staff and students.
  • Listen! Download some podcasts to your computer to discover what a finished product should sound and look like. The iTunes Store has many free podcasts. You'll probably discover thousands which integrate well with your curriculum.
  • Explore! Spend some time playing with Garageband and record your own podcast episode. Make sure to sample the pre-recorded audio files. Experiment with adding artwork and photos to your show. Have fun, nobody is listening-yet.

Podcast Components

  • Intro- Describe who you are and what your podcast is about. Then introduce the specific episode and mention what topics you will discuss. You should start the intro with a music jingle that fades out just prior to narration.
  • Segments- Narrate your content
  • Outro- Make your closing remarks and sign off until the next time. Be sure to thank your audience for dropping in! Include a music jingle which fades out to end the show.

How do I publish a podcast?

We will discuss several options for publishing podcasts. Please note that you may choose to not publish student-made podcasts; they can be presented without uploading them to the internet.

Useful Resources and Links

Marnie McMillan's Podcast Page
The Education Podcast Network
Audacity: Free audio editor and recorder
iTunes Tutorial